Former Ateneo Coach Tab Baldwin, 11 Others Charged with Homicide

Former Ateneo Coach Tab Baldwin, 11 Others Charged with Homicide

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | July 2, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has formally recommended homicide and reckless imprudence charges against former Ateneo Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin and eleven others.

These recommendations arise from an ongoing investigation into the tragic deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

The CIDG has forwarded these complaints, along with potential anti-hazing violations, to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for comprehensive evaluation and case development.

This move signals an intensified focus on accountability surrounding the fatalities, which have cast a shadow over Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball program.

CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II recently met with Rene Baterbonia’s family, providing a detailed briefing on the investigation’s findings. Investigators presented a meticulously constructed timeline of the June 8 drowning incident in Dipaculao, Aurora, outlining the gathered evidence and specific charges recommended against Baldwin and the co-respondents. Authorities confirmed the inclusion of an unnamed 11th individual in the complaints submitted to the DOJ.

General Morico assured Baterbonia’s family of the Philippine National Police’s unwavering commitment to the case, highlighting that PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has assigned a dedicated team of PNP lawyers to assist investigators and closely monitor the proceedings.

The Department of Justice will now undertake a thorough review of the CIDG’s supplemental referral, marking a critical juncture in the pursuit of justice for the deceased student-athletes.

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